Kimber Custom LW Liberty Pistol 9mm 5 in. Warthog 9 rd.
About this product
The Kimber Custom LW Liberty Pistol 9mm 5 in. Warthog 9 rd. is a full-size 1911 platform chambered in 9mm with a 5-inch barrel and distressed steel finish that weighs 33 ounces unloaded. This single-action semi-automatic features skeletonized components and right-handed controls, lacking an accessory rail for traditional carry. Built on Kimber's lightweight frame design, it bridges classic 1911 handling with modern 9mm ballistics.
What is the Kimber Custom LW Liberty Pistol used for?
The Kimber Warthog serves as a duty-grade range pistol and open-carry defensive firearm where 9mm capacity meets 1911 ergonomics. The 5-inch barrel provides 8% faster muzzle velocity than 4-inch service pistols, making it ideal for competitive shooting and training scenarios requiring precise shot placement. Its 9-round single-stack magazine keeps the profile slim for concealed carry with proper holster selection.
How does the Kimber Custom LW Liberty compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Kimber Warthog delivers handgun maneuverability where the Stevens 334 Rifle offers long-range precision—they're fundamentally different tools. The Stevens .308 Win reaches 500+ yards effectively while the Kimber's 5-inch barrel maxes practical engagement at 50 yards. For home defense in tight quarters, the 8.7-inch overall length Kimber clears doorframes faster than any rifle.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This pistol weighs 33 ounces empty and measures 8.7 inches long with a 5-inch barrel and 5.25-inch height including sights. The grip width measures 1.28 inches at its thickest point, comparable to standard 1911 frames. At 8.2 inches sight radius, it provides 15% more aiming precision than compact 3-inch barrel alternatives.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this pistol if you require ambidextrous controls or rail-mounted accessories—the right-hand-only safety and lack of Picatinny rail limit customization. Shooters needing high capacity should consider double-stack alternatives; the 9-round magazine falls short compared to 17-round Glock 17 magazines. Left-handed operators will find the safety configuration problematic under stress.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, one 9-round metal magazine, a cable lock, and factory documentation including compliance materials. Unlike some competitors, Kimber includes only one magazine—expect to purchase additional $40 magazines for training. The packaging meets California DOJ requirements with explicit safety warnings and serialized labels.
Is the Kimber Custom LW Liberty worth it at $835.99?
At $836, this Kimber justifies its price through machined steel construction where Turkish imports cut corners. Compared to a $600 Tisas 1911, the Kimber's distressed finish and skeletonized trigger represent a 28% premium for aesthetic refinement. For shooters valuing American manufacturing and classic 1911 lineage, this pistol delivers—but budget-conscious buyers should consider the Stevens 555 Sporting for similar quality at lower cost.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 33 oz—4 oz lighter than all-steel 1911 equivalents
- 5-inch barrel delivers 1250 fps muzzle velocity with 124gr ammunition
- Skeletonized trigger reduces weight by 0.3 oz for crisp 4.5 lb pull
- Distressed finish hides holster wear better than blued surfaces
Trade-offs
- No accessory rail limits weapon light mounting options
- Single 9-round magazine included—$40 per additional magazine
- Right-hand-only safety problematic for left-handed shooters
- Distressed finish shows oil smudges more visibly than matte finishes
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 850064945379 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | GCWRTHOG-3000502 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, the Kimber Warthog fits most 5-inch 1911 holsters due to its standard frame dimensions. The 1.28-inch width accommodates common Kydex or leather designs from brands like Galco and Safariland. Test fitment before purchase—some tight holsters may rub the distressed finish.
- Does this work with aftermarket 1911 magazines?
- It accepts most 9mm 1911 magazines though Kimber's proprietary follower design optimizes feeding. Wilson Combat and Chip McCormick magazines function reliably but may require 50-round break-in. The factory magazine holds 9 rounds while some aftermarket options reach 10 rounds with extended baseplates.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana average 7 business days from order verification to transfer completion. Ironclad Armory processes within 48 hours, then carriers like UPS Ground add 5 days transit. Expect longer delays during holiday seasons or inventory shortages.
- Can I return it if it fails function testing?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturing defects verified by their armorers. The pistol must be unfired with original packaging—once fired, contact Kimber's warranty department directly. Expect 2-3 weeks for manufacturer repair turnaround on validated claims.
- Does this work with suppressor-height sights?
- The dove tail cut accepts standard Novak-style sights but requires gunsmith installation for suppressor-height models. Tall sights must clear threaded barrels—this 5-inch non-threaded barrel limits practicality. For suppressed use, consider a 1911 model with factory threading from the outset.